Donald Protas

Services for Donald Protas, 74, of Groton will be 7:00 p.m., Thursday, March 21st at Paetznick-Garness Funeral Chapel, Groton.  Paul Kosel will officiate.  Burial will follow at a later date in Union Cemetery, Groton.  Military honors will be provided by the Groton American Legion Post #39.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to services.

Donald passed away March 16, 2019 at Groton Care and Rehabilitation Center after a four year battle with lung cancer, due to exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam.

Donald James was born on July 28, 1944 in Buffalo, New York to Adam and Mary (Rbyarczyk) Protas along with a twin brother, Dennis.

After high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Army serving his country as an Infantry man in Germany and Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry (Airmobile) Division.  Don earned various awards, including the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medals.  After his honorable discharge, he worked for the US Postal Service in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Preceding him in death were his parents, his twin brother, Dennis, an older brother, Adam and sister, Virginia.

Celebrating his life is his wife, Deb (Herron) Protas of Groton, three sons: Michael of Aberdeen, Scott of Seneca, NY, and Philip of Springfield, VT.  Don is also survived by his six grandchildren:  Breven, Chase, Caitlyn, Leah, Josie and Laurana.

Casketbearers will be Steve Herron, Terry Herron, Dennis Nelson and Mike Becker.

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